Law & Order: SVU has become synonymous with Olivia Benson, brilliantly portrayed by Mariska Hargitay. From her beginnings as a detective in 1999 to her current role as captain in season 22, Benson’s journey has been marked by her relentless pursuit of justice. Along the way, she has faced numerous perpetrators and suspects, some of whom have tried to escape her grasp. One memorable incident even saw Benson slap a suspect, showcasing her toughness and dedication. Let’s dive into the details of this unforgettable moment.
The Evolution of Olivia Benson
Olivia Benson made her debut in the very first episode of Law & Order: SVU back in 1999. Paired with the sometimes aggressive Detective Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni), Benson has always been the calm, composed counterpart. However, she knows when to assert her authority, a trait that has seen her rise through the ranks of law enforcement. Throughout her career, Benson has chased down countless suspects, survived kidnappings, and navigated precarious situations, never letting anything deter her from her duty.
The Slap Heard ‘Round the Fandom
In season 13, episode 19 titled “Street Revenge,” Benson’s tenacity is on full display. The episode revolves around a serial rapist terrorizing the West Soho area of New York City. As the detectives take measures to catch the perpetrator, some citizens take justice into their own hands. The investigation leads Benson and Detective Fin Tutuola (Ice-T) to Andy Chen (Michael James Levy), a suspect playing basketball who matches the description of the attacker.
When Benson and Fin approach Andy, he throws a basketball at Benson and attempts to flee. Demonstrating her tactical prowess, Benson takes a different route, blindsiding Andy and cutting off his escape. When Andy raises his hands to fight, Benson delivers a hard slap to his face, followed by an elbow strike when he attempts to hit her. She swiftly subdues him, discovering a switchblade on him and recalling his history of groping on the subway.
The Twist and the True Culprit
Despite Andy’s claims of being the assailant, it is revealed that he was only a copycat attacker. The real culprit, a masked vigilante named Stuart (Keir O’Donnell), orchestrated the assaults to get closer to a woman in the vigilante group. Stuart even tried to frame someone else before the detectives uncovered the truth and brought him to justice.
Fans React to Benson’s Iconic Moment
Fans on Reddit recently revisited the scene where Benson slaps Andy, expressing their admiration and amusement. One fan highlighted the “annoyed look on Liv’s face” while slapping the suspect, while another confessed they could “watch this over and over.” Some even noted that Benson seemed to enjoy delivering the slap, with one fan saying, “It almost looks like she’s smiling.” The scene’s humor and intensity have made it a memorable moment for many viewers.
In summary, Law & Order: SVU continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storylines and dynamic characters. Olivia Benson’s slap in “Street Revenge” is just one example of the show’s ability to blend drama, action, and a touch of humor, leaving fans eager for more.
